Cool Vibes at the First Chapter Meeting of the Year
By Jennifer Mirsky and Maureen Klein
What a true delight to attend our recent chapter meeting at the showroom of the True Residential Design Center — our event host and a NY Manhattan Chapter sponsor.
Beverages flowed, bites were passed, and attendees took turns spinning the wheel to win a variety of prizes.
NKBA Manhattan President Charle-John Cafiero spoke about exciting new student initiatives and we inducted Diana Mosher as Membership Chair and Tony Monteleone as Treasurer.
Showroom specialist Emily Mazzei walked us through the retro-yet-modern refrigerator designs. With the press of a button, the handy transparent glass-front refrigerator doors can be darkened, just in case your shelves are not quite staged and ready for their “company’s here” close-ups! Otherwise, your fruits, vegetables, and bubbly can be beautifully and easily displayed.
Showroom Manager Wes Lind explained that what makes TRUE unique is the fact that they have been family-owned for 75+ years and they craft every item in-house in St. Louis, Missouri, including the LED lights inside the refrigerators.
Thank you to True Residential for hosting this evening, where NKBA members and guests had a chance to see old friends and make some new ones too, in a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Now that’s cool!
Check out some photos below, and view more images from our gathering on our Facebook page
Charle-John congratulates Diana Mosher, who will use her candle to search for new members! Jeff Siegel Photography.
It’s official! Tony Montelone is the new treasurer, despite Mischievous Monty crossing his fingers a few seconds later! Jeff Siegel Photography.
Interior designer Felicitas Oefelein spins the wheel! Jeff Siegel Photography.
Now THAT’S vintage! Mark Rosenhaus and Charle-John Cafiero hold up a poster from the early days of NKBA’s Manhattan Chapter. Jeff Siegel Photography.
Wes Lind, True Residential Showroom Manager, rings in the new year with Katie Lamonthe (also known as Instagram’s @quartzgirl_katie) from chapter sponsor, Cambria. Jeff Siegel Photography.
Do blonds have more fun? Well, actually brunettes do too at NKBA events. Just ask Ann Cohen flanked by former chapter presidents Toni Sabatino and Julie Schuster. Jeff Siegel Photography.
And for a quick video look, see Premiere Systems Design’s take here.
KBIS MONTH IS HERE
Are You Ready for The Ultimate Kitchen & Bath Experience?
Pack your suitcases, grab your passport, and lace up your walking shoes because Las Vegas is calling! From Tuesday, February 25 to Thursday, 27, 2025, KBIS is set to deliver an electrifying three-day international trade fair that will redefine design innovation. This year’s Global Connectis bigger than ever, featuring four must-see European pavilions alongside 670+ exhibitors, unveiling groundbreaking products and trends. As part of Design & Construction Week (DCW), KBIS—co-located with the International Builders’ Show (IBS)—is your all-access pass to discovering new brands, making game-changing connections, and elevating your expertise in North America’s largest kitchen & bath showcase. Don’t just attend—immerse yourself in the future of design!
What Happens in Vegas'
But that’s just the beginning—our NYC Chapter is turning up the heat with exclusive experiences you won’t want to miss! This month's feature article, 'What Happens in Vegas'— Michelle Shen and Maureen Klein conducted in-depth sleuthing to give you the inside scoop on our members and sponsors making waves at KBIS. And, at the show, The 2025 KBIS Elevate Tourtakes you behind the scenes with a “Hop-on-Hop-off” experience on Tuesday, February 25, and special activities on February 24 & 26, spotlighting innovative brands, sustainability, and standout product categories—plus swag, raffles, and special offers! Can’t be there in person? No worries! Our members will take over Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn to keep you plugged into all the action.
And the excitement doesn’t end in Vegas—join us on Thursday,March 20 at the Cosentino Showroom in the A&D Building for “The 2025 KBIS CUT,” an exclusive evening of luxury, innovation, and design insights. With top designers breaking down the biggest KBIS trends with hosts Franz Viegener and Cosentino NYCunveiling some of their most precious possessions, this is one event you won’t want to miss!
A Round of Applause, Please!
As we gear up for KBIS 2025, we celebrate incredible milestones within our NYC Chapter. Exciting news from our Advocacy & Student Initiative Committees—our chapter has been awarded a $3,500 student initiative grant from the National Housing Endowment (NHE)! This funding will support a fall 2025 career fair, introducing students and job seekers to rewarding careers in residential skilled trades—a huge thank you to Rose Ott and the Advocacy Committee for their dedication to community outreach.
On Friday, March 21, Rose Ott and Pattie Carpenter arranged for two working designers to present inspiring career paths at Career Day, hosted at the High School of Fashion Industries. Additionally, the Advocacy and Student Initiative Committees, led by Ross Ott & Julie Schuster, respectively, will collaborate on the highly anticipated Career Fair later this year, expanding our efforts to shape the next generation of industry professionals.
Ring in The New at True
Last month, we kicked off the year in style with our ‘Ring In The New at True’ chapter meeting at the True Residential Showroom in the A&D Building. Our new contributing editor, Jennifer Mirsky, has compiled a fun-filled pictorial recap of the event. We welcomed 2024 with a toast and swore in our new officers: Diana Mosher as Membership Chair and Tony Monteleone as Treasurer. A heartfelt thank you to Wes Lind for being such a gracious host!
More Community & Chapter News
We also take a moment to honor the memory of Su Hilty, a cherished member of IFDA and our design community. Su’s unwavering dedication and kindness left a lasting impact on so many of us. A memorial will be held on Wednesday,February 12 to celebrate her incredible life and contributions. Be sure to check our industry calendar for details on this and other upcoming events, including the Decorator Showhouses in Florida, LEDucation Presented by DLFNY–NYCin March, and Salone Internazionale del Mobile 2025, Milan, Italy, in April—all with registration links and further information.
As we close this edition of our newsletter, we want to highlight the generosity and compassion of our NKBA Manhattan NYC Chapter. In the spirit of giving back, our chapter made a year-end donation of $1,000 to God’s Love We Deliver, an organization dedicated to providing nutritious meals to those in need. Their gratitude deeply touched us, and we appreciate Rose Ott for facilitating this meaningful connection.
Our chapter board unanimously voted to donate $1,000 to the Red Cross Fund for the California Wildfires (CAWILDFIRES). Our hearts go out to the communities affected by this devastating tragedy, and we extend our thanks to Bill Darcy, Jr., whose inspiring words moved us to take action.
Through these contributions, we reaffirm our commitment to shaping the future of kitchen and bath design and supporting those in need. Thank you to all our members for being part of such a generous and engaged community. Finally, a huge thank you to Michelle Shen and Jennifer Mirsky, our fantastic new volunteer newsletter editors, for their contributions this month. Editor Maureen Klein and I look forward to continuing to bring you the latest from our vibrant community.
Our outstanding committees embody the innovation, collaboration, and excellence that define our chapter as we reach new heights! It is truly an honor to serve as President of the Manhattan-NYC Chapter—an organization brimming with passion, talent, and vision. As we embark on an exciting new era, I invite you to join us in shaping the future. Whether through volunteering on a committee or attending our events, there are endless ways to get involved and make a difference. Contact me or Communications@nkbamanhattan.com. Stay connected, stay inspired, and see you at KBIS 2025 and beyond and at our many exciting events ahead!
Charlé-John
President, NKBA-NYC Chapter
WHAT HAPPENS IN VEGAS
By Michelle Shen and Maureen Klein
Monday Evening, February 24
Ellen Lopez, CMKBD
Ellen Lopez Judges 2025 Design Competition
Monday, February 24th, 7pm - 10:30pm, Wynn Hotel, Tickets required for entry
“When NKBA National calls you say how can I help!” said Ellen Lopez, CMKBD, who is on deck to judge this year’s NKBA/KBIS Professional Design Competition. With cash prizes totaling $100,000, winners will be revealed at the NKBA Design + Industry Awards Opening Party on February 24th at the Wynn Lafite Ballroom. Best of luck to all who entered!
Tuesday, February 25
Sharon L. Sherman, founder of Thyme & Place Design
Sharon Sherman Talks Nutritional Spaces
Tuesday, February 25th, 11am, NEXT Stage, SL7185
Designer Sharon Sherman, founder of Thyme & Place Design, will be speaking on the NEXT Stage on Tuesday, February 25th on a panel moderated by Danny Seo, Co-Principal of RUE media, discussing the topic of Designing Kitchens and Dining Areas for Healthy Lifestyles.
Sharon Sherman Presents at VFTI, Voices From the Industry
Tuesday, February 25th, 1:15 pm, Room N258, VFTI Badge Required, CEU credits available
Designer Sharon Sherman, (shown above) founder of Thyme & Place Design, will join Rachel Moriarty of Rachel Moriarty Interiors for a discussion on Unleashing Your Inner Design Voice: Embracing Your True Design Style on Tuesday, February 25th at the Voices From the Industry Conference in room N258.
Tuesday, February 25 at 2pm, KBIS Podcast Studio, South Hall
AJ Madison is proud to bring two exciting discussions to the KBIS Podcast Studio this year. Tune in on Tuesday, February 25 for a discussion on Leveling Up: How Designers Get Noticed by Media and Brands, featuring Vanessa Deleon, Vanessa Deleon Associates, Kathryn Given, Style Director for Luxe Interiors + Design, Amy Chernoff, VP of Marketing for AJ Madison and Josh Cooperman, Host & Publisher of Convo by Design.
Jessica Petrino Ball, Director of Trade Engagement & Education, AJ Madison
AJ Madison in the Podcast Studio: Luxe for Less
Wednesday, February 26, 11 AM, KBIS Podcast Studio, South Hall
Tune in on Wednesday, February 26 at 11 am for a discussion with Alena Capra, Alena Capra Design, Jessica Petrino Ball, Director of Education & Trade Engagement, AJ Madison and Josh Cooperman for a discussion on Luxe for Less: Achieving the Perfect Results on a Budget. Explore the rapidly changing design space and learn how to craft that perfect environment on a budget through strategic choices, waste reduction, planned customization and an understanding for how the industry is changing.
Robert Bell, RLA
Jessica Petrino Ball, Director of Trade Engagement & Education, AJ Madison
AJ Madison Hosts VFTI Workshop on Electrification in the Outdoor Kitchen
Wednesday, February 26 at 1:15pm in Room N258, VFTI Badge Required, CEU credits available
With new construction limitations on gas, AJ Madison is discussing implications and evolution of The New Electric Outdoor Kitchen at a VFTI session on Wednesday, February 26. The workshop will feature a discussion with Phillip Thomas, Interior Designer, Saba Wahid Duffy, Food Network Chef and Dr. Jake Deutsch, Physician and Content Creator.
Thursday, February 27
Rex Aguirre, founder and president of Premiere Systems Design
Ashley Bancroft, operations manager and systems designer for Premiere Systems Design
Premiere Systems Presents Smart Home Trends for Kitchen and Bath at VFTI
Thursday, February 27th at 2:15pm in room N256 Badge Required, CEU credits available
The technology design firm’s Founder and President Rex Aguirre and its Operations Manager and Systems Designer Ashley Bancroft will explore the benefits of smart lighting, automated shades, and voice control in a Smart Home Trends presentation at the Voices From the Industry Conference on Thursday, February 27th. The event will feature a demonstration on how smart lighting can enhance circadian rhythms for product and peaceful sleep. premieresystemsdesign.com
Drop by Anytime Tuesday, February 25 to Thursday, February 27
XTONE, part of the Porcelanosa Group, Returns to KBIS 2025 with New Innovations
Booth SL3105, South Hall
XTONE is making a highly anticipated return to KBIS 2025, unveiling seven new large-format porcelain collections and six cutting-edge technologies. With designs like Amazonite, Breccia Imperiale, and Statuario, XTONE continues to push the boundaries of innovation in surface materials. Visit Booth SL3105, South Hall in Las Vegas to explore the future of porcelain slabs. Learn more at www.porcelanosa.com/us Instagram: @porcelanosa @xtone_surface
Richelieu Invites Visitors to a Mood Board Challenge
Booth N2827 in the North Hall
Luxury specialty hardware brand Richelieu, with three products named finalists for KBIS Best in Show awards, is activating a Mood Board Challenge for a chance to win a $500 credit to shop the brand. Participants can create a mood board at booth N2827 in the North Hall, snap and share on Instagram with hashtags #RichelieuKBIS2025 and #MoodBoardContest, @RichelieuHardware. The winner will be selected by judges Alena Capra, CMKBD, Charlotte Stafford, ASID Allied and Anna-Maria Mastrogiacomo, Richelieu.
Celebrity Chef Stephanie Boswell to Cook Up Treats at SHARP
Booth W2457 in West Hall
SHARP has teamed up with Stephanie Boswell of Food Network fame to highlight its new Sharp High-Speed Oven, combining her culinary expertise with cutting-edge technology to demonstrate how it revolutionizes cooking for home chefs and professionals alike.
Left: Stephanie Boswell, Food Network Chef
HieBAR Design Showcases Kitchen Media Solutions
Booth SL7111 in South Hall
Visit the HieBAR booth and meet the brand’s Founder Ryan Behrooz, to view its Kitchen Media Platform, a convertible device that allows convenient access to devices under the cabinet or on the countertop. The device offers safe, fluid, ergonomic access to tablets anywhere in the kitchen, providing a dynamic, multi-workstation environment. The Cabinet Integrated Media Pallett™ by HieBAR Design is a commercial-grade metal easel featuring adjustable height, tilt and swivel options.
Unique Appliances to Unveil Two New Introductions
Booth W1356 in West Hall
See the Unique Appliances booth to experience its new retro-inspired over-the-range microwave and 30” induction range. The introductions are designed with great attention to detail to meet the demands of modern kitchens while delivering exceptional value.
Chef Nick Ritchie, Executive Chef for Signature Kitchen Suite
Enjoy Live Culinary Demos at Signature Kitchen Suite
Booth W2417 in West Hall
Stop by Signature Kitchen Suite to view their latest show-stopping innovations and experience live culinary demos from the brand’s own executive chef Nick Ritchie. Demos will happen at select times for 50 guests on a first come, first served basis. Explore the full schedule here.
Signature Kitchen Suite is also proud to be the Platinum Partner for the NAHB showcase home at IBS. Complimentary shuttle bus tickets to The New American Home® are available at Central Concourse - C31 so you can tour the home and personally experience their award-winning line of built-in products purposefully designed to cater to a new generation of forward-thinking home chefs.
WHY YOU NEED TO ATTEND KBIS 2025–REGISTER TODAY
KBIS 2025 from February 25 - 27, 2025, in Las Vegas for the largest kitchen and bath industry show in North America. See the latest products, meet with manufacturers, and discover the hottest trends. This is an event you won't want to miss! Register now for KBIS 2025 here: https://hubs.ly/Q02Nts3H0
KBIS SHOW ATTRACTIONS
NEXTStage, South Hall
high-profile speakers, educational sessions and a star-studded lineup of industry icons.
Discovery District, South Hall
See the latest products from emerging and international brands + food court.
** Global Connect, South Hall
NKBA Global Connect curates International Delegation Tours and International Pavilions at KBIS 2025.
LUXURY Lounge, North Hall
German Pavilion, North Hall
15 German manufacturers and more than 30 products and services made in Germany.
United Kingdom Pavilion, Booth SL2105
features brands carrying the appellation “Made in the UK.”
Brazilian Pavilion, Booth SL6015
features unique Brazilian natural stone. More than 20 quarries will be represented.
NKBA Booth SL3125
South Hall for networking and professional headshots.
The Plaza, Across from South Hall
This interactive outdoor area will feature a cash bar, food trucks, music, and lounge areas with fire pits.
**AROUND THE WORLD AT KBIS WITH NKBA GLOBAL CONNECT
The NKBA|KBIS Global Connect Program is bringing the world to KBIS and bringing KBIS to the world, with more international companies, brands, programming and media than ever. The Global Connect International Hub, located in the South Hall at the Las Vegas Convention Center, is centered around the NKBA Global Connect Lounge, featuring robust presentations and discussions, individual brand kiosks, and Global Connect pavilions from some of the program’s Strategic Alliance Partners. Current International Pavilions include the Brazilian Stone Exporters Association, the German Modern Kitchen Association, and the UK-based Bathroom Manufacturers Association, which will bring thousands of square feet of international kitchen and bath products and designs from their members to the show.
If you want your Kitchen & Bath Designer certification, or it's time to renew, NKBA can assist you in their seminar programs. Each webinar series event qualifies for a 0.1 CEU.
Design
Tuesday, February 18, 2025 | 12:00 pm ET
New Opportunities in Kitchen Renovation’s Circular Economy
Tuesday, March 11, 2025 | 12:00 pm ET
Countertop Conundrums: Navigating Challenges, Mistakes, and Reworks in Fabrication
Wednesday, March 12, 2025 | 12:00 pm ET
Top Tile Trends Reshaping the Kitchen & Bath Industry
Tuesday, March 18, 2025 | 12:00 pm ET
Rock Solid Sustainability: The Art of Natural Stone Restoration
Wednesday, March 26, 2025 | 12:00 pm ET
Countertop Chronicles: Unveiling Surface Secrets
Business
Tuesday, March 25, 2025 | 12:00 pm ET
Boosting Kitchen & Bath Sales: Harnessing Data-Driven Storytelling for Maximum Impact
FRANZ VIEGENER INTRODUCES A FLUTED VERSION OF ITS CLASSIC KITCHEN COLLECTION
Franz Viegener, has expanded its Classic kitchen collection with the addition of a fluted kitchen faucet and a matching fluted prep faucet.
The Classic-H collection reimagines the iconic Classic design with the addition of stunning fluted details on both the spout and handle, bringing an elevated sense of refinement to any kitchen. Maintaining the graceful proportions of its predecessor, the Classic-H faucet stands at an impressive 19 ⅛" height, while the prep faucet offers a compact yet equally sophisticated option at 16 ⅛". Designed for both beauty and functionality, the Classic-H collection pairs a gracefully arched silhouette with effortless usability and robust construction. Its versatile aesthetic bridges the gap between professional-grade performance and timeless home design, making it an ideal centerpiece for kitchens that prioritize style and substance alike.
JENNAIR HOSTS DEBUT
Jennair hosts exclusive evening as they reveal their new induction downdraft cooktop!
Join them and witness the innovation up close during a captivating live demonstration, while savingor a selection of delicious small bites and drinks, carefully curated for the event.
NATIVE TRAILS SECURED BRONZE IN THE 2024 INTERNATIONAL DESIGN AWARDS
Native Trails' Winemaker Series was selected as a winner in the 18th International Design Awards! The collection was awarded Bronze in the “Bathroom Appliances and Fittings” category. The jury had an extremely difficult time selecting the winners as the standard was incredibly high this year with entries from almost 80 countries.
Winemaker Series brings the essence of California’s wine country to upscale bathrooms through sustainable practices and forward-thinking design. Conceived out of a desire to give new life to a quality material regularly discarded after use, Winemaker repurposes white oak staves used to enhance the flavor and aroma of wine during fermentation. Wine residues are removed through meticulous drying, brushing, planing and sanding to highlight the generous grain patterns of the oak, before staves are transformed into contemporary vanities and mirrors with fabulous functionality and rich character.
SMEG TAKES HOME BEST IN SHOW
We are exited to announce that SMEG’s Electric BBQ has been nominated as one of the Best in Show Finalists for Best of KBIS 2025!
This nomination celebrates SMEG’s commitment to combining innovation, functionality, and iconic design.
We would like to thank the NKBA and their judges for this great honor!
📍 Be sure to visit us at hashtag#KBIS2025 in the West Hall - booth W2122
MORE POWER TO YOU – WOLF’S INDUCTION RANGE 60” DUAL INSTALLATION KIT
For clients who want a centerpiece range and induction technology, the options have been somewhat limited – until now. Wolf’s new stainless dual installation kit unites two 30” Induction Ranges side by side for a bold look and double cooking capacity. Available in the “Professional” and “Transitional” styles. Requires two 50-amp dedicated circuits and separate electrical service for each range.
Wood tones naturally add warmth, texture, and a sense of coziness to your kitchen. Pairing them with our quartz surfaces adds depth and visual interest to your space. Are you loving this combo as much as we are?
Designer: Ethan Charles Design + Photography: Public 311 Design
THANK YOU TO OUR GOLD SPONSORS
THANK YOU TO OUR SILVER SPONSORS
STAY CONNECTED! Get Social with the Manhattan Chapter
VOLUNTEERS WANTED
The Communications Committee seeks a co-newsletter chair or editor for outbound marketing to supply or report on relevant industry news. We'd love you to join our team if you have social media or writing skills. Please contact Communications@nkbamanhattan.org.
The mission of the NKBA is to inspire, lead and empower the kitchen and bath industry through the creation of certifications, marketplaces, and networks.
